UREA

Description

Urea is an organic compound with the chemical formula CO(NH₂)₂. It is a colorless, odorless, and highly soluble compound found naturally in the urine of mammals and in many plants. In skincare, urea is used primarily for its hydrating properties, as it helps the skin retain moisture and increases the penetration of other active ingredients. It is also known to help exfoliate and soften rough, dry skin.

INCI: Urea

CAS Number: 57-13-6

Applications:

• Moisturizing Agent: Urea is used in creams, lotions, and serums as a humectant to draw moisture into the skin and prevent water loss.
• Exfoliant: In higher concentrations, urea has keratolytic properties, helping to break down the bonds between dead skin cells, making it effective in products for treating dry, rough, or callused skin.
• Anti-aging: Urea helps maintain skin hydration and elasticity, making it a common ingredient in anti-aging skincare products.
• Foot Care Products: It is a key ingredient in foot creams and ointments due to its ability to soften rough, dry skin and calluses.
• Treatment for Skin Conditions: Urea is included in formulations for eczema, psoriasis, and other dry skin conditions, where it helps in skin barrier repair and hydration.

Appearance: white, crystalline powder

Solubility:

soluble in water (about 1080 g/L at 20°C) and also dissolves well in alcohol and glycerin. It is practically insoluble in organic solvents like oils.

Origin:

• Natural Origin: Urea is naturally found in the urine of animals (including humans), where it is a byproduct of protein metabolism. It is also present in certain plants.
• Synthetic Production: Urea for commercial use, including in cosmetics, is often synthetically produced through the Haber-Bosch process, where ammonia and carbon dioxide react under high pressure and temperature.

While synthetic urea is commonly used in cosmetics, it is chemically identical to naturally occurring urea, and its production is highly regulated for safety and purity.